If you are semi-prepared, you'll have the basics on hand =
at home, at work, or maybe even in your vehicle. If you look at this picture, it's a cheap investment. Basic medical kit + hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol, q-tips, CPR mask etc.

These items are disposable, priceless and "cheap"! Out of the three adjectives just listed, I'll choose "priceless". How many times have you been the person who witnesses something? I can't even count that high anymore (for me). I always seem to be at the scene of something. 

Last week, it was a baby who flew out of a stroller (almost into the street). Minutes after that, it was a car hitting (t-boning) a guy on a bike. Both people got dusted off and were OK. But that's how it goes. Luck was on their side this time.

Another day, I was driving and noticed a person laying in the middle of a parking lot. I was going to that store anyway, so I ran over to see what was going on. I asked the people standing around what had happened. This poor girl had a seizure and fell in the middle of the parking lot. People were honking and mad because the girl was laying on the ground. Such kind and considerate people we have. Just wait until something goes horribly wrong, I'm sure we'll see the very best in humanity. 

So, after gloving up and helping this poor girl, I realized that I was the only person who was helping. She was a "special needs" kid and her caregiver seemed more interested in standing around. Not too surprising. After doing what I could, I left with a lump in my throat. It gets really old watching people who don't care. I care, but know that I can't save the world.

All we have to do is something. "Something" is usually more than other people are doing. Even if it's just calling 9-1-1, try to help in some way (if you can). In reality, you can't always help. But if you can, great! The items pictured above might be able to buy some time until the professionals arrive. Are you afraid of blood or squeamish? If so, maybe you can be the "phone person". But you can still have a small first-aid kit to hand to the person who is helping out. You can never have too many supplies or resources during a disaster or emergency.

If we suffer an earthquake, natural disaster or terrorist attack, we will need to work together. Most people will stand around and get in the way. If we can help or be an asset, that will make a difference. What we do in bad situations will be "priceless" if we have the supplies and know how to use them. 

Written 2-20-12